Page 25 of Fumbled Love

“It’s a long story, but we ran into each other the night my flight was canceled.”

“And?” She held my gaze. Disbelief mixed with confusion and maybe a little excitement was written all over her face.

I wrung my hands in front of me. “And I’m pregnant with his baby.”

“Oh, my.” She brought me back in for a hug. “I have so many questions,” she said, pulling back and squeezing my arm.

I unbuttoned my jacket so I could hang it up on the hook. “I will do my best to answer them.”

She pulled on my hand and led me to the family room. My grandmother followed closely behind us. She picked up the pitcher of sweet tea, poured me a glass, and placed it in my hand.

“Thanks,” I said, staring at the familiar-looking Christmas tree in the bay window. It was decorated with green and red bulbs, and the angel I made in pre-school sat at the top. If I squinted hard enough, I’d see a few handmade ornaments I made when I was younger. Everything felt nostalgic—even the dozen presents already wrapped under the tree with handmade bows.

So many memories from my childhood came rushing back to me. Would my child have the same traditions I had growing up? Would my mom go overboard every year with gifts? Or would they spend the holidays with the Cross family? I couldn’t imagine not waking up with my child and missing out on those magical moments. Especially since you only got to experience them for a few short years.

We still had so much to figure out.

My mom sunk into the spot next to me. “Does he know?” she asked softly.

I leaned my head back and nodded. “He does, and he wants to be involved.” My lips quirked up in a smile at how easy it was hanging out with him. Much easier than I ever dreamed it would be. There was also a glance here and there that I noticed, and a few comments I picked up on that hinted at maybe more. But it was too early to determine what more meant for us.

“I think that’s great.” She patted my leg. “I have no doubt that with or without his help, you’ll do just fine. You know I’ll support you in any way I can.” She paused, and I could hear the wheels spinning in her head. “You could always move back home, you know,” she said with a hopeful look in her eyes.

“One thing at a time, Mom.” I smiled, trying to get her to hold off on that conversation. I knew it would be brought up and that she would do everything in her power to convince me to quit my job and start looking at houses nearby. I just didn’t expect it to be today.

I looked to my grandmother to see if she had anything to add. Frankly, I was surprised she’d stayed quiet for so long. “Well?” I asked, twirling my hand in a circle, giving her the go-ahead to get whatever she had to say off her chest.

She pressed her lips together and scratched the side of her head. “Raisin’ kids ain’t cheap these days. Make sure he pays his fair share.”

I don’t even know why I bothered asking. “I’m not worried about that.”

My mom cleared her throat and threw my grandmother a death glare. “Let me help you get settled.”

I grabbed my suitcase by the door and rolled it down the hall. My mom flipped the light switch, and I glanced across the room. The last time I stepped foot in this house was five years ago, and it was exactly as I remembered it—tan walls with long red curtains and a bedspread to match. Besides the dark cherry furniture, there wasn’t much else in the room besides a few boxes in the corner with scrapbooks and photos.

“Do you mind if I lie down for a bit? I’m feeling wiped out.” I sat on the edge of the bed and shifted my weight when I heard a little squeak. I forgot how uncomfortable this mattress was.

“Of course not. Take all the time you need. If you need help putting your things away, let me know.”

“Thanks, Mom.” Just as she was about to shut the door, I called out, “Would you want to do a little shopping later? I need to pick up a few gifts.”

“I’d love to.” She smiled. “Get some rest, sweetheart.”

Once I was all alone, I plugged my phone into the charger and clicked on the last text exchange between Maverick and me. I promised to text him when I was all settled in.

Me:Thanks for breakfast today. I’m glad we talked.

I knew he had a physical therapy appointment and a team meeting this afternoon. That’s why I was surprised when he texted right back.

Maverick:Me too. What are your plans later?

I read his message several times, trying to figure out why he was asking. Did he want to see me again? Today?

Me:Taking a nap now and shopping with my mom later. What about you?

Maverick:My schedule is wide open. Get some rest, and I’ll check in with you in a few hours. I want to see you again, but I don’t want to monopolize all your time. Have fun shopping with your mom.

A smile stretched across my face.

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